The importance of Gas Turbines on Combined Cycle Power Plants

Abstract

Combined cycle power plant is a highly efficiency power generation facility that improves energy utilization efficiency by integrating two or more different thermal cycle processes. Generally speaking, The steam turbine is the most significant part of a combined cycle power plant. Gas turbines, as thermal engines, can convert the thermal energy generated by fuel combustion into mechanical energy. This paper systematically analyzes various types of gas turbines applied in combined cycle power plants. It details the structural features, working principles, and the respective advantages and disadvantages of heavy-duty, aviation-derived and micro gas turbines. Additionally, it explores optimization methods covering thermodynamic cycle, system integration, and control strategies, as well as the impact of component structure, materials, and fuels on performance. The role of AI in enhancing gas turbine operation, including fault prediction, parameter optimization, and design assistance, is also discussed. The study concludes that diverse gas turbines serve different energy demands, and continuous optimization and AI integration will drive their more efficient and sustainable development.